The Method of Coordinates

This introductory text explores the translation of geometric concepts into the language of numbers in order to define the position of a point in space (the orbit of a satellite for example). The two-part treatment begins with discussions of the coordinates of points on a line coordinates of points in a plane and the coordinates of points in space. Part 2 examines geometry as an aid to calculation and the necessity and peculiarities of four-dimensional space. Written for systematic study it features a helpful series of road signs in the margins alerting students to passages requiring particular attention and an abundance of ingenious problems — with solutions answers and hints — promote habits of independent work